Brigham Young University (BYU) is operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called the “Mormon Church.” As part of their undergraduate coursework, BYU students take multiple Mormon religion classes.
Some of these students have shared their thoughts, insights, and reflections. We invite you to take a look at their epiphanies and discoveries as they delve into the scriptures.
Sanctification
I read a scripture this last week for my Book of Mormon class that I want to share with you. It is in Helaman 3:35. I love the book of Helaman. Every time I read it, I get so much out of it. Helaman and 3 Nephi are the best. Anyway, here’s the scripture; it talks about sanctifying your hearts.
Nevertheless they did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation, yea, even to the purifying and the sanctification of their hearts, which sanctification cometh because of their yielding their hearts unto God.
The definition of sanctify is “to set apart for sacred use; consecrate.” Or “to make holy; purify.” So by fasting and praying, they grew more faithful and humble until it set them apart. Until it made them holy.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, one of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said:
Brethren, part of my warning voice tonight is that this will only get worse. It seems the door to permissiveness, the door to lewdness and vulgarity and obscenity swings only one way. It only opens farther and farther; it never seems to swing back. Individuals can choose to close it, but it is certain, historically speaking, that public appetite and public policy will not close it. No, in the moral realm the only real control you have is self-control.
Brethren, if you are struggling with self-control in what you look at or listen to, in what you say or what you do, I ask you to pray to your Father in Heaven for help… Talk to your mom and dad. Talk to your bishop. Get the best help you can from all the good people who surround you. Avoid at all costs others who would tempt you, weaken your will, or perpetuate the problem.
If anyone does not feel fully worthy tonight, he can become worthy through repentance and the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Savior wept and bled and died for you. He has given everything for your happiness and salvation. He certainly is not going to withhold help from you now! Then you can help others to whom you are sent, now and in the future, as one holding the priesthood of God.
I know this is true. Listen to Elder Holland’s advice. I know through doing these things we can sanctify ourselves to the Lord.
-DJ
